How old do you have to be to rent a car?

The age at which you need to rent a car depends on the car rental’s requirements, the country of pick up, and other factors:

• The standard minimum age to rent a car is typically 25, but many companies offer rentals to drivers aged 21–24 with additional fees
• Young driver fees can range from $15-$40 per day or a flat fee
• Above 70? In some scenarios, the overall price of your rental may increase if you’re above a certain age

Planning a road trip or need a set of wheels for your next vacation? Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. But before you start dreaming about cruising down scenic highways, you might be wondering: "How old do you have to be to rent a car?" The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think. Let's dive into the details so you can hit the road with confidence.

What is a young driver fee in car rental?

A young driver fee is an additional charge that car rental companies apply to drivers under a certain age, typically those between 21 and 24. This fee is designed to offset the higher insurance risk associated with less experienced drivers. Rental companies consider younger drivers statistically more likely to be involved in accidents, so they use this surcharge to cover potential increased costs.

The fee can vary widely between companies and locations, ranging from $15 to $40 per day or a flat fee for the entire rental period. While it can be frustrating for younger renters, it's a common industry practice that allows rental companies to extend their services to drivers under 25 while managing their risk.

How old do you have to be to rent a car?

The age requirements for renting a car can vary depending on several factors, including the rental company's policies, the country you're renting in, and sometimes even the type of car you want to rent. Here's a general breakdown:

• Standard age requirement: In many countries and for most major rental companies, the standard minimum age to rent a car is 25 years old. At this age, you'll typically have access to the full range of vehicles and the best rates.
• Young driver options: Don't worry if you're not quite 25 yet! Many rental companies will rent to drivers between 21 and 24 years old. However, be prepared for some restrictions and additional fees.
• Under 21: While it's less common, some rental companies may rent to drivers who are 18 to 20 years old. This is often limited to specific locations or smaller, local rental agencies.
• International variations: Keep in mind that age requirements can differ from country to country. Always check the specific rules for your destination.

If you're ready to explore your options, you can easily search for rental cars that match your age requirements through Booking.com.

How long must I have held a driving license to rent a car?

Having a valid driver's license is a must for renting a car, but some rental companies also have requirements about how long you've held your license. Here's what you need to know:

• General rule: Most rental companies require that you've held a valid driver's license for at least one year.
• Young drivers: If you're under 25, some companies may require that you've held your license for longer – sometimes up to three years.
• International rentals: When renting in a foreign country, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your regular license. Check the requirements for your destination before you travel.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Always verify the specific requirements with your chosen rental company to avoid any surprises at the counter.

Car rental considerations for young drivers

Young drivers under 25 have many additional considerations for renting a car. Rentals may not be possible at all, may require additional fees and higher deposits, and may restrict car types available. Here’s what young drivers need to know.

What kind of car can I rent if I’m a young driver?

If you're under 25, you might face some restrictions on the types of cars you can rent. Here's what to expect:

1. Economy and compact cars: These are usually available to all eligible drivers, regardless of age.
2. Mid-size cars: Many companies allow young drivers to rent these, but policies vary.
3. Luxury, premium, and specialty vehicles: These are often off-limits to drivers under 25 due to insurance restrictions.
4. Vans and larger vehicles: Again, these may be restricted for younger drivers.

Don't let these limitations discourage you. There are still plenty of great options available for young drivers.

Will I pay more if I’m a young driver?

Unfortunately, if you're under 25, you'll likely face higher rental costs. A young driver fee is an additional charge that rental companies apply to drivers under a certain age (usually 25). This fee is meant to offset the higher insurance risk associated with less experienced drivers.

How much is a young driver fee?

Young driver fees can vary widely depending on the rental company, location, and your exact age. Here's a general idea of what you might encounter:

1. Daily fee: Most companies charge a daily fee, which can range from $15 to $40 per day.
2. Flat fee: Some companies might charge a flat fee for the entire rental period, which could be anywhere from $50 to $200 or more.
3. Age-based sliding scale: A few companies adjust their fees based on your exact age, with lower fees for 23-24 year olds compared to 21-22 year olds.

When will I pay the young driver fee?

Typically, the young driver fee is charged at the time of rental, along with other fees and the cost of the rental itself. It's important to factor this into your budget when planning your trip.

How will I pay the young driver fee?

The young driver fee is usually paid in the same way as your rental charges. This could be by credit card, debit card, or whatever payment method the rental company accepts. Always check the payment options in advance.

What if I’m not the main driver?

If you're under 25 and not the main driver, you might still face additional charges if you want to be added as an additional driver . Policies vary, so check with the rental company if you're planning to share driving duties.

How can I avoid paying a young driver fee?

While it's challenging to completely avoid young driver fees if you're under 25, here are a few strategies that might help:

• Shop around: Different rental companies have different policies. Compare options on Booking.com to find the best deal.
• Look for promotions: Some companies occasionally offer promotions that waive young driver fees.
• Join loyalty programs: Some rental car loyalty programs offer fee waivers for young drivers.
• Check with your employer: If you're renting for business, your company might have a corporate agreement that waives young driver fees.
• Consider alternative transportation: If the fees are too high, you might want to explore other options, such as public transportation or ride-sharing services, for shorter trips.

Car rental considerations for mature drivers

Renting a vehicle if you’re 70 or older

The majority of rental companies accept drivers aged 70 or older. If they do enforce an age restriction, this will generally be communicated during the booking process. But some companies may require an additional liability fee or impose different terms and conditions on your rental agreement. Regardless of the information available online, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the company directly before confirming your booking.

Additional fees for older drivers

In some scenarios, the overall price of your rental may increase if you’re above a certain age. Some rental companies will charge an “elderly or senior driver” fee in addition to the standard rental amount, to account for any higher premiums that the insurance companies deem necessary. Age may also be considered when it comes to the type of vehicle you’re looking to rent. For example, a car with a smaller engine may end up being cheaper than a van or an SUV.

Always remember, it doesn’t matter whether you’ve been driving your whole life without incident, collision or claim – it’s important not to take these additional fees to heart and note that most rental companies don’t enforce fees for older drivers.

Avoiding additional fees during pickup

When booking a vehicle online, the rental company may only look to clarify if you are of a legal driving age without mentioning any additional policies or costs that may apply to older drivers. If there are additional fees involved, this can result in expensive payments during pickup at the rental counter that may take you by surprise. To avoid this, it’s always a good idea to contact the rental company before confirming your booking, or double-check the cancellation policies in advance.

Maximum age limits

Although it’s rare, some rental companies do enforce a maximum age limit. This limit varies from company to company, depending on what country you’re in. In some countries, the hard upper limit for renting a vehicle can be as low as 60 and as high as 90 years old, so it’s always best to check. Most rental companies use the 70-year mark as a general rule of thumb to determine whether you’re an older driver or not.

While age restrictions and young driver fees can be frustrating, they shouldn't stop you from enjoying the freedom of a rental car on your next trip. By understanding the rules and planning ahead, you can find a rental option that works for you, regardless of your age.